Apparatus and method for foot and shin exercise

ABSTRACT

An apparatus having a top member and bottom member with means of attaching an anatomical appendage is disclosed. The anatomical appendage is a shin strap and toe strap. Apart from having a roller mechanism between the top member and bottom member the apparatus also has a side rolling mechanism to accommodate angular motion while using the apparatus during exercise.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority and is a divisional application of thecurrently pending and allowed application Ser. No. 14/477,693 filed onSep. 4, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention is related to an apparatus and system for exercisingvarious parts of the body. More specifically it relates to exercisingthe shin and leg part of the human body.

BACKGROUND

Physical exercise reduces stress and improves overall health. Physicalexercise includes a number of different training methods, includingstrength training, which includes creating a force resistant tocontraction of one or more muscles. While strength training is generallyperformed to increase muscle strength and size, there are many otherbenefits as well. Such benefits include improved cardiac function,posture, and joint function; reduced potential for injury; and increasedmetabolism and bone density.

SUMMARY

Provided herein is an apparatus including a top member configured tocouple with an anatomical appendage or a structure thereof; a bottommember rotatably attached to the top member; and a movement-enablingmeans for enabling the apparatus to move across a surface substantiallywithout interruption, wherein the movement-enabling means comprises aturntable bearing between the top member and the bottom member, and arolling mechanism about a bottom surface of the bottom member.

In one embodiment, a top member may couple with a toe strap and a heelstrap for performing leg and shin exercise. In another embodiment,bottom member may have roller for rolling mechanism. In anotherembodiment a side mounted rolling mechanism may also be present toprevent the rollover of the apparatus and also the angle adjustment forthe shin and leg exercise when a person is bending and twisting theapparatus to accommodate various angles.

In another embodiment, a resistance band may be attached in between thetop member and bottom member using resistance band attaching means. Inanother embodiment, the plurality of the turntable bearings may includelazy Susan or turntable bearing, bearing, bearing cup, and bearing cone,coupled to a bottom surface of a respective bottom member, or recessedinto a bottom surface of a respective bottom member and coupled thereto,which turntable bearing may be configured to compensate for a point oflock up as described herein.

The foregoing and other features of the invention may be betterunderstood with reference to the drawings, description, and appendedclaims.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A provides a schematic of an apparatus in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 1B provides a schematic of an apparatus in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 1C provides a schematic of an apparatus in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 1D provides another schematic of the apparatus of FIG. 1C inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 2A provides a schematic of an apparatus including a lazy Susan orturntable bearing in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 2B provides a schematic of an apparatus including a lazy Susan orturntable bearing in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 2C provides a schematic of an apparatus including a lazy Susan orturntable bearing in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 3 provides a schematic of an apparatus compensating for a point oflock up in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 4A provides a schematic of an apparatus including a rollingmechanism in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 4B provides a schematic of an apparatus including a rollingmechanism in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 4C provides a schematic of an apparatus including a rollingmechanism in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 5 provides a schematic of a rolling mechanism in accordance withsome embodiments.

FIG. 6A provides a schematic of a ball transfer bearing in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 6B provides a schematic of a ball transfer bearing in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 7 provides a schematic of an apparatus compensating for a point oflock up in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 8A provides a schematic of an apparatus including a side-mountedrolling mechanism in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 8B provides a schematic of an apparatus including a side-mountedrolling mechanism in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 8C provides a schematic of an apparatus including a side-mountedrolling mechanism in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 9 provides a schematic of an apparatus including a resistanceband-attaching means in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 10A provides a schematic of an apparatus including a resistanceband-attaching means in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 10B provides a schematic of an apparatus including a resistanceband-attaching means in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 10C provides a schematic of a ring for a resistance band-attachingmeans in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 11 provides a schematic of an apparatus adjusting to an appliedresistance band-pulling force in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 12A provides a schematic of an apparatus including a resistanceband-attaching means in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 12B provides a schematic of an apparatus including a resistanceband-attaching means in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 12C provides a schematic of an apparatus including a resistanceband-attaching means in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 13A provides a schematic of a runner for a track-and-runner systemin accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 13B provides a schematic of a runner for a track-and-runner systemin accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 13C provides a schematic of a track-and-runner system in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 14A provides a schematic of a runner for a track-and-runner systemin accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 14B provides a schematic of a runner for a track-and-runner systemin accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 14C provides a schematic of a track-and-runner system in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 15 provides a schematic of an apparatus adjusting to an appliedresistance band-pulling force in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 16 provides a schematic of an apparatus configured to couple with ahand in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 17A provides a schematic of an apparatus configured to couple witha forearm in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 17B provides a schematic of an apparatus configured to couple witha forearm in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 18A provides a schematic of an apparatus configured to couple witha foot in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 18B provides a schematic of an apparatus configured to couple witha foot in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 19A provides a schematic of an apparatus configured to couple witha shin in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 19B provides a schematic of an apparatus configured to couple witha shin in accordance with some embodiments.

DESCRIPTION

Before some particular embodiments are provided in greater detail,persons having ordinary skill in the art should understand thefollowing:

The particular embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention assuch particular embodiments may vary. A particular embodiment hasfeatures that may be readily separated from the particular embodimentand optionally combined with or substituted for features in any ofseveral other embodiments. Terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescribing some particular embodiments, and the terminology does notlimit the scope of the invention.

Unless indicated otherwise, ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third,etc.) are used to distinguish or identify different elements or steps ina group of elements or steps, and do not supply a serial or numericallimitation. For example, “first,” “second,” and “third” elements orsteps need not necessarily appear in that order, and embodiments neednot necessarily be limited to the three elements or steps.

Unless indicated otherwise, any labels such as “left,” “right,” “front,”“back,” “top,” “bottom,” “forward,” “reverse,” “clockwise,” “counterclockwise,” “up,” and “down,” or other similar terms such as “upper,”“lower,” “aft,” “fore,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “proximal,” “distal,”or the like, are used for convenience. Such labels are not intended toimply any particular fixed location, orientation, or direction. Instead,such labels are used to reflect relative location, orientation, ordirection.

Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms of“a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references.

Physical exercise reduces stress and improves overall health. Physicalexercise includes a number of different training methods, includingstrength training, which includes creating a force resistant tocontraction of one or more muscles. While strength training is generallyperformed to increase muscle strength and size, there are many otherbenefits as well. Such benefits include improved cardiac function,posture, and joint function; reduced potential for injury; and increasedmetabolism and bone density. As such, there is a need for systems andmethods for physical exercise provided herein.

In accordance with some embodiments, one or more apparatuses (e.g.,apparatuses 100A, 100B, and 100C of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, respectively)may be used in systems for physical exercise. In accordance with someembodiments, each of the one or more apparatuses of the system may becoupled with an anatomical appendage or a structure thereof of a user,and the user may subsequently move the anatomical appendage(s) or thestructure(s) thereof over an extrinsic surface in methods for physicalexercise. Different combinations of the one or more apparatuses providedifferent systems for physical exercise and, in turn, provide differentmethods for physical exercise.

Before apparatuses for coupling to particular anatomical appendages orstructures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin, etc.) aredescribed, some apparatuses including some common features to theforegoing will be described. As such, one or more apparatuses including100A, 100B, and 100C of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, respectively, will bedescribed before the apparatus 1600 of FIG. 16 for coupling to a hand,the apparatus 1700 of FIGS. 17A and 17B for coupling to a forearm, theapparatus 1800 of FIGS. 18A and 18B for coupling to a foot, and theapparatus 1900 of FIGS. 19A and 19B for coupling to a shin.

FIG. 1A provides a schematic of an apparatus in accordance with someembodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 1A is intended to providea basis from which to describe certain features of apparatuses for thesystems and methods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 1A isnot intended to limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods forphysical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 1A, an apparatus 100A (side view) may include a topmember 110, a bottom member 120 integral with or coupled to the topmember 110, and a movement-enabling mechanism 130 for moving theapparatus 100A over an extrinsic surface. The movement-enablingmechanism 130 may be integral with the bottom member 120, coupled to abottom surface of the bottom member 120, or recessed into a bottomsurface of the bottom member 120 and coupled thereto. The apparatus 100Amay optionally include a component 140 configured to couple with one ormore anatomical appendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm,foot, shin, etc.).

FIG. 1B provides a schematic of an apparatus in accordance with someembodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 1B is intended to providea basis from which to describe certain features of apparatuses for thesystems and methods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 1B isnot intended to limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods forphysical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 1B, an apparatus 100B (side view) may include a topmember 110, a number of bottom members 120 (e.g., a bottom member 120A;a bottom member 120B; etc.) integral with or coupled to the top member110, and a number of movement-enabling mechanisms 130 (e.g., amovement-enabling mechanism 130A; a movement-enabling mechanism 130B;etc.) for moving the apparatus 100B over an extrinsic surface. Each ofthe number of movement-enabling mechanisms 130 may be integral with arespective bottom member, coupled to a bottom surface of a respectivebottom member, or recessed into a bottom surface of a respective bottommember and coupled thereto. For example, the movement-enabling mechanism130A may be integral with the bottom member 130A, coupled to a bottomsurface of the bottom member 130A, or recessed into the bottom surfaceof the bottom member 130A and coupled thereto. Likewise, themovement-enabling mechanism 130B may be integral with the bottom member130B, coupled to a bottom surface of the bottom member 130B, or recessedinto the bottom surface of the bottom member 130B and coupled thereto.The apparatus 100B may optionally include a component 140 configured tocouple with one or more anatomical appendages or structures thereof(e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin, etc.).

FIGS. 1C and 1D provide schematics of an apparatus in accordance withsome embodiments. It should be understood that FIGS. 1C and 1D areintended to provide a basis from which to describe certain features ofapparatuses for the systems and methods for physical exercise providedherein. FIGS. 1C and 1D are not intended to limit the apparatuses forthe systems and methods for physical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIGS. 1C and 1D, an apparatus 100C (side view) may include anumber of top members 110 (e.g., a top member 110A; a top member 110B;etc.), a number of bottom members 120 (e.g., a bottom member 120A; abottom member 120B; etc.), and a number of movement-enabling mechanisms130 (e.g., a movement-enabling mechanism 130A; a movement-enablingmechanism 130B; etc.) for moving the apparatus 100C over an extrinsicsurface. The apparatus 100C may optionally include a number ofcomponents 140 (e.g., a component 140A; a component 140B; etc.)configured to couple with one or more anatomical appendages orstructures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin, etc.). The topmember 110A, the bottom member 120A, the movement-enabling mechanism130A, and the component 140A may be structured in a first stack similarto that described in reference to FIG. 1A. Likewise, the top member110B, the bottom member 120B, the movement-enabling mechanism 130B, andthe component 140B may be structured in a second stack similar to thatdescribed in reference to FIG. 1A.

As shown in FIGS. 1C and 1D, the apparatus 100C (side view) may includea hinge 105 between the first stack (e.g., the top member 110A, thebottom member 120A, the movement-enabling mechanism 130A, and thecomponent 140A) and the second stack (e.g., the top member 110B, thebottom member 120B, the movement-enabling mechanism 130B, and thecomponent 140B). The hinge 105 may be configured to allow one of thefirst stack or the second stack to lift from an extrinsic surface andtoward the other one of the first stack or the second stack whilemaintaining contact with the extrinsic surface. For example, as shown inFIG. 1C, the hinge 105 may be configured to allow the second stack tolift toward the first stack as indicated by the arrow. As shown in FIG.1D, the hinge 105 may be configured to allow the second stack to liftfrom the extrinsic surface while the first stack maintains contact withthe extrinsic surface. The hinge 105 allows for more natural movementwhen the apparatus 100C is coupled with an anatomical appendage orstructure thereof having one or more joints (e.g., metatarsophalangealarticulations of foot).

The bottom member 120 of the apparatus 100A, as well as each of thenumber of bottom members 120 of the apparatus 100B or 100C, may befixedly or rotatably coupled to its respective top member 110. FIG. 2Ashows a non-limiting example of a bottom member of an apparatusrotatably coupled to a top member. Each of FIGS. 2B and 2C shows anon-limiting example of a number of bottom members of an apparatusrotatably coupled to a top member.

FIG. 2A expands upon at least FIG. 1A and provides a schematic of anapparatus including a lazy Susan or turntable bearing in accordance withsome embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 2A is intended toprovide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g., lazySusans or turntable bearings) of apparatuses for the systems and methodsfor physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 2A is not intended to limitthe apparatuses for the systems and methods for physical exerciseprovided herein, and the certain features (e.g., lazy Susans orturntable bearings) described in reference to FIG. 2A are not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 2A, an apparatus 200A (side view) may include a topmember 110, a bottom member 120 rotatably coupled to the top member 110,and a movement-enabling mechanism 130 for moving the apparatus 200A overan extrinsic surface. The bottom member 120 may be rotatably coupled tothe top member 110 through a lazy Susan or turntable bearing 235, whichturntable bearing 235 may be configured to compensate for a point oflock up as described herein. The movement-enabling mechanism 130 may beintegral with the bottom member 120, coupled to a bottom surface of thebottom member 120, or recessed into a bottom surface of the bottommember 120 and coupled thereto. The apparatus 200A may optionallyinclude a component 140 configured to couple with one or more anatomicalappendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin,etc.).

FIG. 2B expands upon at least FIG. 1B and provides a schematic of anapparatus including a lazy Susan or turntable bearing in accordance withsome embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 2B is intended toprovide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g., lazySusans or turntable bearings) of apparatuses for the systems and methodsfor physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 2B is not intended to limitthe apparatuses for the systems and methods for physical exerciseprovided herein, and the certain features (e.g., lazy Susans orturntable bearings) described in reference to FIG. 2B are not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 2B, an apparatus 200B (side view) may include a topmember 110, a number of bottom members 120 (e.g., a bottom member 120A;a bottom member 120B; etc.) rotatably coupled to the top member 110, anda number of movement-enabling mechanisms 130 (e.g., a movement-enablingmechanism 130A; a movement-enabling mechanism 130B; etc.) for moving theapparatus 200B over an extrinsic surface. Each of the number of bottommembers 120 may be rotatably coupled to the top member 110 through arespective lazy Susan or turntable bearing (e.g., a turntable bearing235A; a turntable bearing 235B; etc.), which turntable bearing may beconfigured to compensate for a point of lock up as described herein. Asdescribed herein, each of the number of movement-enabling mechanisms 130may be integral with a respective bottom member, coupled to a bottomsurface of a respective bottom member, or recessed into a bottom surfaceof a respective bottom member and coupled thereto. The apparatus 200Bmay optionally include a component 140 configured to couple with one ormore anatomical appendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm,foot, shin, etc.).

FIG. 2C expands upon at least FIGS. 1C and 1D and provides a schematicof an apparatus including a lazy Susan or turntable bearing inaccordance with some embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 2Cis intended to provide a basis from which to describe certain features(e.g., lazy Susans or turntable bearings) of apparatuses for the systemsand methods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 2C is notintended to limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods forphysical exercise provided herein, and the certain features (e.g., lazySusans or turntable bearings) described in reference to FIG. 2C are notlimited thereto.

As shown in FIG. 2C, an apparatus 200C (side view) may include a numberof top members 110 (e.g., a top member 110A; a top member 110B; etc.), anumber of bottom members 120 (e.g., a bottom member 120A; a bottommember 120B; etc.), and a number of movement-enabling mechanisms 130(e.g., a movement-enabling mechanism 130A; a movement-enabling mechanism130B; etc.) for moving the apparatus 200C over an extrinsic surface. Theapparatus 200C may optionally include a number of components 140 (e.g.,a component 140A; a component 140B; etc.) configured to couple with oneor more anatomical appendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand,forearm, foot, shin, etc.). The top member 110A, the bottom member 120A,the movement-enabling mechanism 130A, and the component 140A may bestructured in a first stack with a lazy Susan or turntable bearing 235Aconfigured to compensate for a point of lock up as described herein.Likewise, the top member 110B, the bottom member 120B, themovement-enabling mechanism 130B, and the component 140B may bestructured in a second stack with a lazy Susan or turntable bearing 235Bconfigured to compensate for a point of lock up as described herein. Ahinge 105 described in reference to at least FIGS. 1C and 1D allows formore natural movement when the apparatus 200C is coupled with ananatomical appendage or structure thereof having one or more joints(e.g., metatarsophalangeal articulations of foot).

FIG. 3 provides a schematic of an apparatus compensating for a point oflock up in accordance with some embodiments of the systems and methodsfor physical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 3, an apparatus 300 (top view) may include a top member310 and a bottom member 320 rotatably coupled to the top member 310.While the bottom member 320 is shown as having a greater diameter thanthe top member 310, it should be understood that the greater diameter isfor an illustrative purpose. The bottom member 320 need not have agreater diameter than the top member 310. For example, the bottom member320 may have a smaller diameter or equal diameter to top member 310. Asdescribed herein, the bottom member 320 may be rotatably coupled to thetop member 310 through a turntable bearing (e.g., turntable bearing 235of FIG. 2A). Also as described herein, a movement-enabling mechanism(e.g., movement-enabling mechanism 130 of FIG. 2A) may be integral withor coupled to the bottom member 320.

As shown in FIG. 3, at a time t₁ and a position x₁, the apparatus 300may have a velocity 302 (e.g., linear velocity, angular velocity, etc.)over an extrinsic surface in a direction toward a surface irregularity399 (e.g., surface bump, surface hole, surface scratch, debris, etc.).At a time t₂ and a position x₂, the apparatus 300 may maintain thevelocity 302 or minimize any loss in the velocity 302 while engaging thesurface irregularity 399. On account of the turntable bearing (e.g.,turntable bearing 235 of FIG. 2A) positioned between the top member 310and the bottom member 320, the bottom member 320 is configured to rotatein response to the movement-enabling mechanism (e.g., movement-enablingmechanism 130 of FIG. 2A) engaging the surface irregularity 399, therebymaintaining the velocity 302 or minimizing any loss in the velocity 302.The counterclockwise-oriented arrows leading from a visual indicator 321(not necessarily part of the apparatus) on the bottom member 320 and thesurface irregularity 399 illustrate how the bottom member 320 rotates inresponse to the movement-enabling mechanism engaging the surfaceirregularity 399. At a time t₃ and a position x₃, the apparatus 300 maymaintain the velocity 302 or minimize any loss in the velocity 302 whiledisengaging the surface irregularity 399. The counterclockwise-orientedarrows leading to the visual indicator 321 and the surface irregularity399 illustrate how the bottom member 320 rotated in response to themovement-enabling mechanism engaging the surface irregularity 399. Thevisual indicator 321 in relation to a visual indicator 311 on the topmember 310 illustrates an angle through which the bottom member 320rotated in response to the movement-enabling mechanism engaging thesurface irregularity 399. At a time t₄ and a position x₄, the apparatus300 may have the velocity 302 over the extrinsic surface in a directionaway from the surface irregularity 399. In view of the foregoing, theturntable bearing may also be considered part of the movement-enablingmechanism because the turntable bearing and the movement-enablingmechanism may operate in concert to maintain the velocity or minimizeany loss in the velocity in the event of a lock up.

It should be understood that the bottom member is free to rotate in aclockwise or counterclockwise direction, depending on the location ofthe surface irregularity. In addition, it should be understood that asurface irregularity (e.g., surface bump, surface hole, surface scratch,debris, etc.) in an extrinsic surface need not be present for a lock upin a movement-enabling mechanism. A lock up may also result from amanufacturing imperfection in the movement-enabling mechanism or anelement thereof. However, it has been discovered that an imperfectlymanufactured movement-enabling mechanism is sufficient for systems andmethods for exercise provided herein due, in part, to the turntablebearing action described herein.

The movement-enabling mechanism, alone or in part, enablesomni-directional movement of an apparatus over an extrinsic surface,which may be without substantial interruption as described in referenceto FIG. 3. The movement-enabling mechanism may include, but is notlimited to, a gliding mechanism, a rolling mechanism, or a combinationof the foregoing. The apparatus including the movement-enablingmechanism may enable omni-directional movement under a weight rangingfrom that of the apparatus alone to that of the apparatus in combinationwith at least a 100 kg user of the apparatus, wherein at least 100 kgincludes 100 kg or more, such as 125 kg or more, and, for example, 150kg or more.

A gliding mechanism may include a glide plate coupled to a bottom memberof the apparatus, such as a glide plate formed apart from a bottommember and subsequently affixed thereto. While each of themovement-enabling mechanisms 130 of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 2A, 2B, and 2Cis intended to be generic, each of the foregoing movement-enablingmechanisms may be considered a glide plate coupled to a bottom member.

A gliding mechanism may include a glide plate integral with a bottommember of the apparatus, such as a glide plate formed with or on abottom member.

The glide plate may include a composition for facilitating glidingacross a desired extrinsic surface. The composition may include, but isnot limited to, a composition having a low coefficient of frictionagainst the desired extrinsic surface. Such a composition may include apolymer, a glass, a ceramic, a composite, a metal, a metalloid, anon-metal, or a combination of one or more of the foregoing. Forexample, the composition may include a polymer including a lowcoefficient of friction (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene or Teflon®). Sucha polymer may further include a moldable polymer such as aninjection-moldable polymer (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene or Teflon®).Such a polymer may even further include a printable polymer such as a3-D-printable polymer.

A rolling mechanism may be coupled to a bottom surface of a bottommember of the apparatus, such as a rolling mechanism including a numberof rolling elements individually coupled to a bottom surface of a bottommember. While each of the movement-enabling mechanisms 130 of FIGS. 1A,1B, 1C, 1D, 2A, 2B, and 2C is intended to be generic, each of theforegoing movement-enabling mechanisms may be considered a rollingmechanism coupled to a bottom surface of a bottom member.

A rolling mechanism may be recessed into a bottom surface of a bottommember of the apparatus and coupled thereto, such as a rolling mechanismincluding a number of rolling elements individually recessed into abottom surface of a bottom member and coupled thereto. Each rollingmechanism of FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C may be considered a number of rollingelements recessed into a bottom surface of a bottom member and coupledthereto.

A rolling mechanism may be integral with a bottom member of theapparatus, such as a rolling mechanism including a number of rollingelements (or portions thereof) individually integral with a bottommember. Each rolling mechanism of FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C may be considereda number of rolling elements (or portions thereof) integral with abottom member.

FIG. 4A expands upon at least FIG. 1A or 2A and provides a schematic ofan apparatus including a rolling mechanism in accordance with someembodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 4A is intended to providea basis from which to describe certain features (e.g., rollingmechanisms) of apparatuses for the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein. FIG. 4A is not intended to limit theapparatuses for the systems and methods for physical exercise providedherein, and the certain features (e.g., rolling mechanisms) described inreference to FIG. 4A are not limited thereto.

As shown in FIG. 4A, an apparatus 400A (side view) may include a topmember 110, a bottom member 120 rotatably coupled to the top member 110through a turntable bearing 235 configured to compensate for a point oflock up as described herein, and a rolling mechanism 430 for rolling theapparatus 400A over an extrinsic surface. The rolling mechanism 430 maybe integral with the bottom member 120, coupled to a bottom surface ofthe bottom member 120, or recessed into a bottom surface of the bottommember 120 and coupled thereto. The rolling mechanism 430 may include anumber of rolling elements, and the rolling elements or portions thereofmay be integral with the bottom member 120, coupled to a bottom surfaceof the bottom member 120, or recessed into a bottom surface of thebottom member 120 and coupled thereto. The apparatus 400A may optionallyinclude a component 140 configured to couple with one or more anatomicalappendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin,etc.).

FIG. 4B expands upon at least FIG. 1B or 2B and provides a schematic ofan apparatus including a rolling mechanism in accordance with someembodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 4B is intended to providea basis from which to describe certain features (e.g., rollingmechanisms) of apparatuses for the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein. FIG. 4B is not intended to limit theapparatuses for the systems and methods for physical exercise providedherein, and the certain features (e.g., rolling mechanisms) described inreference to FIG. 4B are not limited thereto.

As shown in FIG. 4B, an apparatus 400B (side view) may include a topmember 110, a number of bottom members 120 (e.g., a bottom member 120A;a bottom member 120B; etc.) rotatably coupled to the top member 110through a respective turntable bearing (e.g., a turntable bearing 235A;a turntable bearing 235B; etc.) configured to compensate for a point oflock up as described herein, and a number of rolling mechanisms 430(e.g., a rolling mechanism 430A; a rolling mechanism 430B; etc.) forrolling the apparatus 400B over an extrinsic surface. As describedherein, each of the number of rolling mechanisms 430 may be integralwith a respective bottom member, coupled to a bottom surface of arespective bottom member, or recessed into a bottom surface of arespective bottom member and coupled thereto. The rolling mechanism 430may include a number of rolling elements, and the rolling elements orportions thereof may be integral with a respective bottom member,coupled to a bottom surface of a respective bottom member, or recessedinto a bottom surface of a respective bottom member and coupled thereto.The apparatus 400B may optionally include a component 140 configured tocouple with one or more anatomical appendages or structures thereof(e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin, etc.).

FIG. 4C expands upon at least FIGS. 1C and 1D or FIG. 2C and provides aschematic of an apparatus including a rolling mechanism in accordancewith some embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 4C is intendedto provide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g.,rolling mechanisms) of apparatuses for the systems and methods forphysical exercise provided herein. FIG. 4C is not intended to limit theapparatuses for the systems and methods for physical exercise providedherein, and the certain features (e.g., rolling mechanisms) described inreference to FIG. 4C are not limited thereto.

As shown in FIG. 4C, an apparatus 400C (side view) may include a numberof top members 110 (e.g., a top member 110A; a top member 110B; etc.), anumber of bottom members 120 (e.g., a bottom member 120A; a bottommember 120B; etc.), and a number of rolling mechanisms 430 (e.g., arolling mechanism 430A; a rolling mechanism 430B; etc.) for moving theapparatus 400C over an extrinsic surface. The apparatus 400C mayoptionally include a number of components 140 (e.g., a component 140A; acomponent 140B; etc.) configured to couple with one or more anatomicalappendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin,etc.). As described herein, the top member 110A, the bottom member 120A,the rolling mechanism 430A, and the component 140A may be structured ina first stack with a turntable bearing 235A; the top member 110B, thebottom member 120B, the rolling mechanism 430B, and the component 140Bmay be structured in a second stack with a turntable bearing 235B; and ahinge 105 between the first stack and the second stack allows for morenatural movement when the apparatus 400C is coupled with an anatomicalappendage or structure thereof having one or more joints (e.g.,metatarsophalangeal articulations of foot). As described herein, each ofthe number of rolling mechanisms 430 may be integral with a respectivebottom member, coupled to a bottom surface of a respective bottommember, or recessed into a bottom surface of a respective bottom memberand coupled thereto. The rolling mechanism 430 may include a number ofrolling elements, and the rolling elements or portions thereof may beintegral with a respective bottom member, coupled to a bottom surface ofa respective bottom member, or recessed into a bottom surface of arespective bottom member and coupled thereto.

A rolling mechanism may include, but is not limited to, one or morerolling elements arranged about a bottom member of the apparatus.

FIG. 5 provides a schematic of a rolling mechanism with a number ofrolling elements in accordance with some embodiments of the systems andmethods for physical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 5, an apparatus may include a bottom member 120 (topview) and a rolling mechanism 430 including a number of rolling elements(e.g. a rolling element 430 a, a rolling element 430 b, . . . , 430 f),wherein the number of rolling elements or portions thereof may beintegral with the bottom member 120, coupled to a bottom surface of thebottom member 120, or recessed into a bottom surface of the bottommember 120 and coupled thereto for moving the apparatus over anextrinsic surface. The number of rolling elements may include any numberof rolling elements in any desired arrangement. As shown in FIG. 5, forexample, at least six rolling elements are arranged in an annulus aboutthe bottom member 120 of the apparatus.

A rolling mechanism may include, but is not limited to, one or morerolling elements selected from ball transfer units or ball transferbearings, ball transfer bearing with turntable bearing, castors,rollers, and wheels. In some embodiments, for example, the rollingmechanism includes a number of ball transfer bearings. FIGS. 6A, 6B,show a non-limiting example of a ball transfer bearing.

FIGS. 6A and 6 b provide schematics of a ball transfer bearing inaccordance with some embodiments of the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 6A, a ball transfer bearing 430 a and 430 b (side view)may include a primary or main ball 610 for contacting andomni-directionally rolling over an extrinsic surface while the balltransfer bearing 430 a and 430 b is in an inverted or “ball down”orientation.

Ball transfer bearings are generally designed to bear loads in a “ballup” orientation. When used in the “ball down” orientation as shown inFIG. 6A, ball transfer bearings may have load-bearing limitations, whichmay lead to lock ups. Despite load-bearing limitations in the “balldown” orientation, it has been discovered that ball transfer bearings inthe “ball down” orientation are sufficient for the loads of systems andmethods for exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 6B, the ball transfer bearing 430 a and 430 b(cross-sectional view) may include secondary or load-transmitting balls612, FIG. 430b may include, but is not limited to, lazy Susan turntablebearing, bearings, bearing cup, and bearing cone configuration, whichwork in concert with the main ball 610 for load supporting andomni-directionally rolling over an extrinsic surface.

Ball transfer bearings are often designed to bear loads withrecirculating, load-transmitting balls. When used withnon-recirculating, load-transmitting balls as shown in FIG. 6A, balltransfer bearings may have load-bearing limitations, which may lead tolock ups. Despite load-bearing limitations with non-recirculating,load-transmitting balls, it has been discovered that ball transferbearings with non-recirculating, load-transmitting balls are sufficientfor the loads of systems and methods for exercise provided herein.However, to accommodate heavier loads, fewer lock ups, etc., balltransfer bearings with recirculating, load-transmitting balls may alsobe used in systems and methods for exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the ball transfer bearing 430 a and 430 bmay include a housing 620 including a top housing 622 and a bottomhousing 624, within which housing 620 the main ball 610 may freely andomni-directionally roll while being held captive.

The ball transfer bearing 430 a and 430 b of FIGS. 6A, 6B, may beseparately formed, recessed into a bottom member of an apparatus, andaffixed to the bottom member by the top housing 622. Alternatively, thetop housing 622 may be integrally formed within a bottom member of anapparatus, and the ball transfer bearing 430 a and 430 b may beassembled in the bottom member.

Whether a ball transfer bearing 430 a and 430 b is separately formed orintegrally formed within a bottom member, the ball transfer bearing 430a may be assembled by adding the load-transmitting balls 612 to the tophousing 622 while the top housing 622 is in an orientation opposite thatshown in FIGS. 6A and 6B. The main ball 610 may be subsequently placedon top of the load-transmitting balls 612. The bottom housing 624 maythen be placed on top of the top housing 622 and snapped into place toform the ball transfer bearing 430 a.

One or more rolling elements or portions thereof (e.g., main ball 610,load-transmitting balls 612 of ball transfer bearing 430 a), may includea composition for facilitating rolling across a desired extrinsicsurface. The composition may include, but is not limited to, acomposition having one or more properties selected from high strength,high density, high strength-to-density ratio, high hardness, and highrigidity. Such a composition may include a polymer, a glass, a ceramic,a composite, a metal, a metalloid, a non-metal, or a combination of oneor more of the foregoing. For example, the composition may include ametal such as stainless steel. For example, the composition may includea polymer such as an injection-moldable polymer or a 3-D-printablepolymer. Such a polymer includes, but is not limited to, one or morepolymers selected from high-density polyethylene, nylon (or aliphaticpolyamides), polyoxymethylene (or acetal).

FIG. 7 provides a schematic of an apparatus compensating for a point oflock up in accordance with some embodiments of the systems and methodsfor physical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 7, an apparatus 700 (top view) may include a top member710 and a bottom member 720 rotatably coupled to the top member 710.While the bottom member 720 is shown as having a greater diameter thanthe top member 710, it should be understood that the greater diameter isfor an illustrative purpose. The bottom member 720 may have a greaterdiameter than the top member 710, but the bottom member 720 need nothave a greater diameter than the top member 710. As described herein,the bottom member 720 may be rotatably coupled to the top member 710through a turntable bearing (e.g., turntable bearing 235 of FIG. 4A).Also as described herein, a rolling mechanism (e.g., rolling mechanism430 of FIG. 4A) may be integral with or coupled to the bottom member720.

As shown in FIG. 7, at a time t₁ and a position x₁, the apparatus 700may have a velocity 702 (e.g., linear velocity, angular velocity, etc.)over an extrinsic surface in a direction toward a surface irregularity799 (e.g., surface bump, surface hole, surface scratch, debris, etc.).At a time t₂ and a position x₂, the apparatus 700 may maintain thevelocity 702 or minimize any loss in the velocity 702 while engaging thesurface irregularity 799. On account of the turntable bearing (e.g.,turntable bearing 235 of FIG. 4A) positioned between the top member 710and the bottom member 720, the bottom member 720 is configured to rotatein response to the rolling mechanism (e.g., rolling mechanism 430 ofFIG. 4A) or a rolling element thereof (e.g., ball transfer bearing)engaging the surface irregularity 799, thereby maintaining the velocity702 or minimizing any loss in the velocity 702. Thecounterclockwise-oriented arrows leading from a visual indicator 721(not necessarily part of the apparatus) on the bottom member 720 and thesurface irregularity 799 illustrate how the bottom member 720 rotates inresponse to the rolling mechanism or a rolling element thereof (e.g.,ball transfer bearing) engaging the surface irregularity 799. At a timet₃ and a position x₃, the apparatus 700 may maintain the velocity 702 orminimize any loss in the velocity 702 while disengaging the surfaceirregularity 799. The counterclockwise-oriented arrows leading to thevisual indicator 721 and the surface irregularity 799 illustrate how thebottom member 720 rotated in response to the rolling mechanism or arolling element thereof (e.g., ball transfer bearing) engaging thesurface irregularity 799. The visual indicator 721 in relation to avisual indicator 711 on the top member 710 illustrates an angle throughwhich the bottom member 720 rotated in response to the rolling mechanismor a rolling element thereof (e.g., ball transfer bearing) engaging thesurface irregularity 799. At a time t₄ and a position x₄, the apparatus700 may have the velocity 702 over the extrinsic surface in a directionaway from the surface irregularity 799. In view of the foregoing, theturntable bearing may also be considered part of the rolling mechanismbecause the turntable bearing and the rolling mechanism may operate inconcert to maintain the velocity or minimize any loss in the velocity inthe event of a lock up.

It should be understood that the bottom member is free to rotate in aclockwise or counterclockwise direction, depending on the location ofthe surface irregularity. In addition, it should be understood that asurface irregularity (e.g., surface bump, surface hole, surface scratch,debris, etc.) in an extrinsic surface need not be present for a lock upin a rolling mechanism or a rolling element thereof. A lock up may alsoresult from a manufacturing imperfection in the rolling mechanism or therolling element thereof. A lock up may also result from using one ormore ball transfer bearings in the “ball down” orientation and/or withnon-recirculating, load-transmitting balls. However, it has beendiscovered that one or more ball transfer bearings in the “ball down”orientation and/or with non-recirculating, load-transmitting balls issufficient for systems and methods for exercise provided herein due, inpart, to the turntable bearing action provided herein.

An apparatus may include a side-mounted rolling mechanism for rollingthe apparatus over an extrinsic surface, which side-mounted rollingmechanism may extend a range of motion for one or more anatomicalappendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin, etc.)over the extrinsic surface. In combination with a movement-enablingmechanism (e.g., a gliding mechanism; a rolling mechanism; etc.)described herein, a side-mounted rolling mechanism may accommodate agreater range of motion for one or more anatomical appendages orstructures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin, etc.) coupled tothe apparatus than the movement-enabling mechanism alone.

A side-mounted rolling mechanism may be coupled to a side surface of abottom member of the apparatus, such as a side-mounted rolling mechanismincluding a number of side-mounted rolling elements individually coupledto a side surface of a bottom member. Each side-mounted rollingmechanism of FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C may be considered a number ofside-mounted rolling elements coupled to a side surface of a bottommember.

A side-mounted rolling mechanism may be recessed into a side surface ofa bottom member of the apparatus and coupled thereto, such as aside-mounted rolling mechanism including a number of side-mountedrolling elements individually recessed into a side surface of a bottommember and coupled thereto. Each side-mounted rolling mechanism of FIGS.8A, 8B, and 8C may be considered a number of side-mounted rollingelements recessed into a side surface of a bottom member and coupledthereto.

A side-mounted rolling mechanism may be integral with a side member ofthe apparatus, such as a side-mounted rolling mechanism including anumber of side-mounted rolling elements (or portions thereof)individually integral with a side member. Each side-mounted rollingmechanism of FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C may be considered a number ofside-mounted rolling elements (or portions thereof) integral with abottom member.

FIG. 8A expands upon at least FIG. 1A and provides a schematic of anapparatus including a side-mounted rolling mechanism in accordance withsome embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 8A is intended toprovide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g.,side-mounted rolling mechanisms) of apparatuses for the systems andmethods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 8A is not intendedto limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein, and the certain features (e.g., side-mountedrolling mechanisms) described in reference to FIG. 8A are not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 8A, an apparatus 800A (side view) may include a topmember 110, a bottom member 120, a movement-enabling mechanism 130, andan optional component 140 configured to couple with one or moreanatomical appendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot,shin, etc.). The top member 110, the bottom member 120, themovement-enabling mechanism 130 (e.g., gliding mechanism, rollingmechanism, etc.), and the component 140 may be configured as describedherein. As shown in FIG. 8A, the apparatus 800A may include side-mountedrolling mechanism 850 including a number of side-mounted rollingelements. The side-mounted rolling mechanism 850 or the number ofside-mounted rolling elements thereof may be coupled to a side surfaceof the bottom member 120, recessed into a side surface of the bottommember 120 and coupled thereto, or integral with a side surface of thebottom member 120.

FIG. 8B expands upon at least FIG. 1B and provides a schematic of anapparatus including a side-mounted rolling mechanism in accordance withsome embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 8B is intended toprovide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g.,side-mounted rolling mechanisms) of apparatuses for the systems andmethods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 8B is not intendedto limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein, and the certain features (e.g., side-mountedrolling mechanisms) described in reference to FIG. 8B are not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 8B, an apparatus 800B (side view) may include a topmember 110, a number of bottom members 120 (e.g., a bottom member 120A;a bottom member 120B; etc.), a number of movement-enabling mechanisms130 (e.g., a movement-enabling mechanism 130A; a movement-enablingmechanism 130B; etc.), and an optional component 140 configured tocouple with one or more anatomical appendages or structures thereof(e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin, etc.). The top member 110, the numberof bottom members 120, the movement-enabling mechanisms 130 (e.g.,gliding mechanisms, rolling mechanisms, etc.), and the component 140 maybe configured as described herein. As shown in FIG. 8B, the apparatus800B may include side-mounted rolling mechanisms 850 (e.g., aside-mounted rolling mechanism 850A; a side-mounted rolling mechanism850B; etc.) including a number of side-mounted rolling elements. Each ofthe side-mounted rolling mechanisms 850 or the number of side-mountedrolling elements thereof may be coupled to a side surface of arespective bottom member, recessed into a side surface of a respectivebottom member and coupled thereto, or integral with a side surface of arespective bottom member.

FIG. 8C expands upon at least FIGS. 1C and 1D and provides a schematicof an apparatus including a side-mounted rolling mechanism in accordancewith some embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 8C is intendedto provide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g.,side-mounted rolling mechanisms) of apparatuses for the systems andmethods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 8C is not intendedto limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein, and the certain features (e.g., side-mountedrolling mechanisms) described in reference to FIG. 8C are not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 8C, an apparatus 800C (side view) may include a numberof top members 110 (e.g., a top member 110A; a top member 110B; etc.), anumber of bottom members 120 (e.g., a bottom member 120A; a bottommember 120B; etc.), a number of movement-enabling mechanisms 130 (e.g.,a movement-enabling mechanism 130A; a movement-enabling mechanism 130B;etc.), and a number of optional components 140 (e.g., a component 140A;a component 140B; etc.) configured to couple with one or more anatomicalappendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin,etc.). The number of top members 110, the number of bottom members 120,the number of movement-enabling mechanisms 130 (e.g., glidingmechanisms, rolling mechanisms, etc.), and the number of components 140may be configured in stacks with a hinge 105 as described herein. Asshown in FIG. 8C, the apparatus 800C may include side-mounted rollingmechanisms 850 (e.g., a side-mounted rolling mechanism 850A; aside-mounted rolling mechanism 850B; etc.) including a number ofside-mounted rolling elements. Each of the side-mounted rollingmechanisms 850 or the number of side-mounted rolling elements thereofmay be coupled to a side surface of a respective bottom member, recessedinto a side surface of a respective bottom member and coupled thereto,or integral with a side surface of a respective bottom member.

A side-mounted rolling mechanism may include a number of rollingelements as described in reference to the rolling mechanism (e.g.,rolling mechanism 430 of FIG. 4A). For example, a side-mounted rollingmechanism may include, but is not limited to, one or more rollingelements selected from ball transfer units or ball transfer bearings,castors, rollers, and wheels. In some embodiments, for example, theside-mounted rolling mechanism includes a number of ball transferbearings. The number of rolling elements (e.g., ball transfer bearings)may be mounted in any desired arrangement (e.g., linear, staggered,etc.) about a side of a bottom member.

An apparatus may include a resistance band-attaching means for attachingone or more resistance bands between the apparatus and an anchor, theapparatus and one or more other apparatuses of the systems for physicalexercise, or a combination of the foregoing. Resistance bands incombination with one or more apparatuses described herein provideadditional systems for physical exercise and, in turn, provideadditional methods for physical exercise.

FIG. 9 expands upon at least FIG. 1A and provides a schematic of anapparatus including a resistance band-attaching means in accordance withsome embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 9 is intended toprovide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g.,resistance band-attaching means) of apparatuses for the systems andmethods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 9 is not intended tolimit the apparatuses for the systems and methods for physical exerciseprovided herein, and the certain features (e.g., resistanceband-attaching means) described in reference to FIG. 9 are not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 9, an apparatus 900 (side view) may include a topmember 110, a bottom member 120, a movement-enabling mechanism 130, andan optional component 140 configured to couple with one or moreanatomical appendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot,shin, etc.). The top member 110, the bottom member 120, themovement-enabling mechanism 130 (e.g., gliding mechanism, rollingmechanism, etc.), and the component 140 may be configured as describedherein. As shown in FIG. 9, the apparatus 900 may include a resistanceband-attaching means 960 including one or more eye fasteners 962 (e.g.,an eye fastener 962 a; an eye fastener 962 b; etc.) affixed to a side ofthe apparatus 900. The one or more eye fasteners 962 may be affixed to aside surface of the top member 110, a side surface of the bottom member120, or a combination of the foregoing. Attaching one or more resistancebands to an eye fastener affixed to a side surface of the top member 110provides more stability to an apparatus from tipping over than attachingone or more resistance bands to an eye fastener affixed to a sidesurface of the bottom member 120; however, it may be desirable to attachone or more resistance bands to an eye fastener affixed to a sidesurface of the bottom member 120 for greater strength development.

It should be understood that the one or more eye fasteners 962 are notlimited to the apparatus of FIG. 9. The one or more eye fasteners 962may also be used in apparatuses similar to those described in referenceto at least FIGS. 1B, 1C, and 1D.

FIG. 10A expands upon at least FIG. 1A and provides a schematic of anapparatus including a resistance band-attaching means in accordance withsome embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 10A is intended toprovide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g.,resistance band-attaching means) of apparatuses for the systems andmethods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 10A is not intendedto limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein, and the certain features (e.g., resistanceband-attaching means) described in reference to FIG. 10A are not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 10A, an apparatus 1000A (side view) may include a topmember 110, a bottom member 120, a movement-enabling mechanism 130, andan optional component 140 configured to couple with one or moreanatomical appendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot,shin, etc.). The top member 110, the bottom member 120, themovement-enabling mechanism 130 (e.g., gliding mechanism, rollingmechanism, etc.), and the component 140 may be configured as describedherein. As shown in FIG. 10A, the apparatus 1000A may include aresistance band-attaching means 960 including a ring 1062 independentlyrotatably attached to the apparatus 1000A for attaching one or moreresistance bands. The ring 1062 may be rotatably attached about thebottom member 120 and axially limited to the bottom member 120 by topand bottom limiters 1065. The top and bottom limiters 1065 may be anumber of individual projections arranged about the bottom member 120,or each of the top and bottom limiters 1065 may be an annulus about thebottom member 120. The ring 1062 may be alternatively rotatably attachedabout the top member 110.

FIG. 10B expands upon at least FIG. 1A and provides a schematic of anapparatus including a resistance band-attaching means in accordance withsome embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 10B is intended toprovide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g.,resistance band-attaching means) of apparatuses for the systems andmethods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 10B is not intendedto limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein, and the certain features (e.g., resistanceband-attaching means) described in reference to FIG. 10B are not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 10B, an apparatus 1000B (side view) may include a topmember 110, a bottom member 120, a movement-enabling mechanism 130, andan optional component 140 configured to couple with one or moreanatomical appendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot,shin, etc.). The top member 110, the bottom member 120, themovement-enabling mechanism 130 (e.g., gliding mechanism, rollingmechanism, etc.), and the component 140 may be configured as describedherein. As shown in FIG. 10B, the apparatus 1000B may include aresistance band-attaching means 960 including a ring 1062 independentlyrotatably attached to the apparatus 1000B for attaching one or moreresistance bands. The ring 1062 may be rotatably attached about thebottom member 120 and axially limited to the bottom member 120 bylimiters 1065 at a top of the ring 1062 and the movement-enablingmechanism 130 at a bottom of the ring 1062. The limiters 1065 may be anumber of individual projections arranged about the bottom member 120,or the limiters 1065 may be an annulus about the bottom member 120. Asshown in FIG. 10B, the movement-enabling mechanism 130 may have agreater diameter than the bottom member 120 effectively providing anannular limiter at the bottom of the ring 1062. The ring 1062 may bealternatively rotatably attached about the top member 110, and thebottom member 120 may have a greater diameter than the top member 110,thereby providing the annular limiter.

FIG. 10C provides a schematic of a ring for a resistance band-attachingmeans in accordance with some embodiments of the systems and methods forphysical exercise provided herein

As shown in FIG. 10C, an apparatus (e.g., the apparatus 1000A; theapparatus 1000B; etc.) may include a ring 1062 (top view) including anumber of through holes 1064 (e.g., a through hole 1064 a; a throughhole 1064 b; etc.) for attaching one or more resistance bands. Becausethe ring 1062 is configured to be independently rotatably attached tothe apparatus (e.g., the apparatus 1000A; the apparatus 1000B; etc.),the ring 1062 may adjust to an applied resistance band-pulling forcefrom one or more resistance bands such that the applied resistanceband-pulling force is normal to the apparatus.

FIG. 11 provides a schematic of an apparatus adjusting to an appliedresistance band-pulling force in accordance with some embodiments of thesystems and methods for physical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 11, an apparatus 1100 (top view) may include a topmember 1110 positioned axially above a rotatably coupled bottom member(not shown), about which bottom member, in turn, a ring 1162 forattaching one or more resistance bands may be independently rotatablyattached. As described herein, the ring 1162 may be alternativelyindependently rotatably attached about the top member 1110.

As shown in FIG. 11, at a time t₁, the apparatus 1100 may have aresistance band 1199 attached to the ring 1162 applying a tangential orsecantial resistance band-pulling force on the apparatus 1100. Theresistance band-pulling force along the resistance band 1199 isillustrated by the arrow along the resistance band 1199. On account ofthe ring 1162 being independently rotatably attached to the apparatus1100, the ring 1162 is configured to rotate in response to theresistance band-pulling force. At a time t₂, the ring 1162 independentlyrotates in response to the resistance band-pulling force as illustratedby the clockwise-oriented arrow leading from the point on the ring 1162at which the resistance band 1199 is attached. At a time t₃, theresistance band 1199 and the resistance band-pulling force is normal orperpendicular to the apparatus 1100, and the clockwise-oriented arrowleading from a visual indicator 1111 (not necessarily part of theapparatus) on the top member 1110 illustrates how the ring 1162 rotatedin response to the resistance band-pulling force. The visual indicator1111 in relation to the point on the ring 1162 at which the resistanceband 1199 is attached illustrates an angle through which the ring 1162rotated in response to the resistance band-pulling force. At a time t₄,the apparatus 1100 is set to adjust to another tangential or secantialresistance band-pulling force on the apparatus 1100.

FIG. 12A expands upon at least FIG. 1A and provides a schematic of anapparatus including a resistance band-attaching means in accordance withsome embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 12A is intended toprovide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g.,resistance band-attaching means) of apparatuses for the systems andmethods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 12A is not intendedto limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein, and the certain features (e.g., resistanceband-attaching means) described in reference to FIG. 12A are not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 12A, an apparatus 1200A (side view) may include a topmember 110, a bottom member 120, a movement-enabling mechanism 130, andan optional component 140 configured to couple with one or moreanatomical appendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot,shin, etc.). The top member 110, the bottom member 120, themovement-enabling mechanism 130 (e.g., gliding mechanism, rollingmechanism, etc.), and the component 140 may be configured as describedherein. As shown in FIG. 12A, the apparatus 1200A may include aresistance band-attaching means 960 including a track 1262 of atrack-and-runner system for attaching one or more resistance bands. Thetrack 1262 of the track-and-runner system may be set in the top member110 as shown, or the track 1262 of the track-and-runner system 1262 maybe set in the bottom member 120.

FIG. 12B expands upon at least FIG. 1B and provides a schematic of anapparatus including a resistance band-attaching means in accordance withsome embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 12B is intended toprovide a basis from which to describe certain features (e.g.,resistance band-attaching means) of apparatuses for the systems andmethods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 12B is not intendedto limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein, and the certain features (e.g., resistanceband-attaching means) described in reference to FIG. 12B are not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 12B, an apparatus 1200B (side view) may include a topmember 110, a number of bottom members 120 (e.g., a bottom member 120A;a bottom member 120B; etc.), a number of movement-enabling mechanisms130 (e.g., a movement-enabling mechanism 130A; a movement-enablingmechanism 130B; etc.), and an optional component 140 configured tocouple with one or more anatomical appendages or structures thereof(e.g., hand, forearm, foot, shin, etc.). The top member 110, the numberof bottom members 120, the movement-enabling mechanisms 130 (e.g.,gliding mechanisms, rolling mechanisms, etc.), and the component 140 maybe configured as described herein. As shown in FIG. 12B, the apparatus1200B may include a resistance band-attaching means 960 including atrack 1262 of a track-and-runner system for attaching one or moreresistance bands. The track 1262 of the track-and-runner system may beset in the top member 110 as shown, or the track-and-runner system mayinclude a number of tracks respectively set in the number of bottommembers 120.

FIG. 12C expands upon at least FIGS. 1C and 1D and provides a schematicof an apparatus including a resistance band-attaching means inaccordance with some embodiments. It should be understood that FIG. 12Cis intended to provide a basis from which to describe certain features(e.g., resistance band-attaching means) of apparatuses for the systemsand methods for physical exercise provided herein. FIG. 12C is notintended to limit the apparatuses for the systems and methods forphysical exercise provided herein, and the certain features (e.g.,resistance band-attaching means) described in reference to FIG. 12C arenot limited thereto.

As shown in FIG. 12C, an apparatus 1200C (side view) may include anumber of top members 110 (e.g., a top member 110A; a top member 110B;etc.), a number of bottom members 120 (e.g., a bottom member 120A; abottom member 120B; etc.), a number of movement-enabling mechanisms 130(e.g., a movement-enabling mechanism 130A; a movement-enabling mechanism130B; etc.), and a number of optional components 140 (e.g., a component140A; a component 140B; etc.) configured to couple with one or moreanatomical appendages or structures thereof (e.g., hand, forearm, foot,shin, etc.). The number of top members 110, the number of bottom members120, the number of movement-enabling mechanisms 130 (e.g., glidingmechanisms, rolling mechanisms, etc.), and the number of components 140may be configured in stacks with a hinge 105 as described herein. Asshown in FIG. 12C, the apparatus 1200C may include a resistanceband-attaching means 960 including a number of tracks 1262 (e.g., atrack 1262A; a track 1262B; etc.) of a track-and-runner system forattaching one or more resistance bands. The number of tracks 1262 of thetrack-and-runner system may be respectively set in the number of topmembers 110 as shown, or the number of tracks 1262 of thetrack-and-runner system may be respectively set in the number of bottommembers 120.

A track-and-runner system may include, but is not limited to, one ormore tracks each including one or more runners. FIGS. 13A-13C and FIGS.14A-14C show non-limiting examples of such runners.

FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 13C provide schematics of a runner for atrack-and-runner system in accordance with some embodiments of thesystems and methods for physical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 13A, a runner 1364 (side view) may be integralincluding a first end 1366 configured for sliding within a track of atrack-and-runner system and a second end 1367 configured for attachingone or more resistance bands. As shown in FIG. 13B, the second 1367 endof the runner 1364 (top view) may include a through hole 1368 forattaching the one or more resistance bands. As shown in FIG. 13C, thesecond end 1367 of the runner 1364 may extend outside the track 1262 tofacilitate attaching the one or more resistance bands. The first end1366 of the runner 1364 may slide within the track 1262 of the topmember 110 (in-and-out of the sheet as shown in FIG. 13C) while beingheld captive in the track 1262.

FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C provide schematics of a runner for atrack-and-runner system in accordance with some embodiments of thesystems and methods for physical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 14A, a runner 1464 (side view) may include wheels 1466at a first end of the runner 1464 configured for rolling within a trackof a track-and-runner system. As shown in FIG. 14B, the runner 1464 mayinclude a through hole 1468 at a second end of the runner 1464 forattaching one or more resistance bands. As shown in FIG. 14C, the secondend of the runner 1464 may extend outside the track 1262 to facilitateattaching the one or more resistance bands. The first end of the runner1464 may roll within the track 1262 of the top member 110 (in-and-out ofthe sheet as shown in FIG. 14C) while being held captive in the track1262.

As shown in FIGS. 13A-13C and 14A-14C, an apparatus (e.g., the apparatus1200A; the apparatus 1200B; the apparatus 1200C; etc.) may include oneor more runners including a through hole for attaching one or moreresistance bands. Because each of the one or more runners is configuredto independently move (e.g., slide; roll; etc.) within a track of atrack-and-runner system of the apparatus, each of the one or morerunners may adjust to an applied resistance band-pulling force from oneor more resistance bands such that the applied resistance band-pullingforce is normal to the apparatus.

FIG. 15 provides a schematic of an apparatus adjusting to an appliedresistance band-pulling force in accordance with some embodiments of thesystems and methods for physical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 15, an apparatus 1500 (top view) may include a topmember 1510 positioned axially above a rotatably coupled bottom member(not shown), either one of which, or both, may include a track of atrack-and-runner system with at least one captive runner 1564 forattaching one or more resistance bands.

As shown in FIG. 15, at a time t₁, the apparatus 1500 may have aresistance band 1599 attached to the runner 1564 applying a tangentialor secantial resistance band-pulling force on the apparatus 1500. Theresistance band-pulling force along the resistance band 1599 isillustrated by the arrow along the resistance band 1599. On account ofthe runner 1564 being independently moveable within the track, therunner 1564 is configured to move within the track in response to theresistance band-pulling force. At a time t₂, the runner 1564independently moves in the track in response to the resistanceband-pulling force as illustrated by the clockwise-oriented arrowleading from the runner 1564. At a time t₃, the resistance band 1599 andthe resistance band-pulling force is normal or perpendicular to theapparatus 1500, and the clockwise-oriented arrow leading from a visualindicator 1511 (not necessarily part of the apparatus) on the top member1510 illustrates how the runner 1564 moved in response to the resistanceband-pulling force. The visual indicator 1511 in relation to the runner1564 illustrates an angle through which the runner 1564 moved inresponse to the resistance band-pulling force. At a time t₄, theapparatus 1500 is set to adjust to another tangential or secantialresistance band-pulling force on the apparatus 1500.

One or more apparatuses for the systems and methods for physicalexercise provided herein may include a composition having one or moreproperties selected from high strength, high density, highstrength-to-density ratio, high hardness, and high rigidity. Such acomposition may include a polymer, a glass, a ceramic, a composite, ametal, a metalloid, a non-metal, or combinations of one or more of theforegoing. For example, the composition may include a metal such asstainless steel. For example, the composition may include a polymer suchas an injection-moldable polymer or a 3-D-printable polymer. Such apolymer includes, but is not limited to, one or more polymers selectedfrom high-density polyethylene, nylon (or aliphatic polyamides),polyoxymethylene (or acetal).

Components of the one or more apparatuses provided herein may beseparately formed (e.g., by injection molding or 3-D printing) andsnapped together for assembly.

In view of the foregoing, examples of apparatuses for the systems andmethods for physical exercise include the following apparatuses.

FIG. 16 provides a schematic of an apparatus configured to couple with ahand in accordance with some embodiments of the systems and methods forphysical exercise provided herein.

As shown in FIG. 16, an apparatus 1600 (side view) configured to couplewith a hand may include a top member 1610, a bottom member 1620rotatably coupled to the top member 1610 through a turntable bearing1635, a rolling mechanism 1630 for moving the apparatus 1600 over anextrinsic surface, and a component 1640 configured to couple with ahand. The component 1640 may include a handle 1642 as shown, 1665load-transmitting balls (also shown as 612), and the handle 1642 mayoptionally rotate on bearing 1644 for an added degree of freedom, whichmay be desirable for greater strength development. In addition, theapparatus 1600 may include a resistance-band attaching means 1660 suchas that described in reference to at least FIG. 10B.

FIGS. 17A (side view) and 17B (top view) provide schematics of anapparatus configured to couple with a forearm in accordance with someembodiments of the systems and methods for physical exercise providedherein.

As shown in either one or both of FIGS. 17A and 17B, an apparatus 1700configured to couple with a forearm may include a top member 1710, anumber of bottom members 1720 rotatably coupled to the top member 1710through respective turntable bearings (e.g., turntable bearing 1735), anumber of rolling mechanisms 1730 for moving the apparatus 1700 over anextrinsic surface, and a component 1740 configured to couple with aforearm. The component 1740 may include a handle 1742 and a forearm pad1744 as shown. In addition, the apparatus may include a resistance-bandattaching means 1760 such as that described in reference to at leastFIG. 12B.

FIGS. 18A (side view) and 18B (top view) provide schematics of anapparatus configured to couple with a foot in accordance with someembodiments of the systems and methods for physical exercise providedherein.

As shown in either one or both of FIGS. 18A and 18B, an apparatus 1800configured to couple with a foot may include a number of top members1810, a number of bottom members 1820, a number of rolling mechanisms1830 for moving the apparatus 1800 over an extrinsic surface, and anumber of components 1840 configured to couple with a forearm, which maybe arranged in stacks coupled with a hinge 1805 as described inreference to at least FIG. 1C. The component 1840 may include a toestrap 1842 and a heel pad 1844 as shown. In addition, the apparatus mayinclude a side-mounted rolling mechanism 1850 such as that described inreference to at least FIG. 8C, and the apparatus may include aresistance-band attaching means 1860 such as that described in referenceto at least FIG. 12C.

FIGS. 19A (side view) and 19B (top view) provide schematics of anapparatus configured to couple with a shin in accordance with someembodiments of the systems and methods for physical exercise providedherein.

As shown in either one or both of FIGS. 19A and 19B, an apparatus 1900configured to couple with a shin may include a top member 1910, a bottommember 1920, a rolling mechanism 1930 for moving the apparatus 1900 overan extrinsic surface, and a component 1940 configured to couple with ashin. The component 1940 may include a shin pad 1942 and an optionalknee pad 1944 as shown. In addition, the apparatus may include aside-mounted rolling mechanism 1950 such as that described in referenceto at least FIG. 8A, and the apparatus may include a resistance-bandattaching means 1960 such as that described in reference to at leastFIG. 12A.

As such, provided herein is an apparatus comprising a top memberconfigured to couple with an anatomical appendage or a structurethereof; a bottom member rotatably attached to the top member; and amovement-enabling means for enabling the apparatus to move across asurface substantially without interruption, wherein themovement-enabling means comprises a turntable bearing between the topmember and the bottom member, and a rolling mechanism about a bottomsurface of the bottom member. In some embodiments, the anatomicalappendage or the structure thereof is selected from a hand, a forearm, afoot, and a shin. In some embodiments, the turntable bearing isconfigured to compensate for a point of lock up in the rolling mechanismby rotating the bottom member around the point of lock up. In someembodiments, the rolling mechanism comprises a plurality of invertedball transfer bearings. In some embodiments, the turntable bearing isconfigured to compensate for a locked up ball transfer bearing byrotating the bottom member around the locked up ball transfer bearing.In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a resistanceband-attaching means for attaching an end of one or more resistancebands, wherein the resistance band-attaching means is configured toadjust to an applied resistance band-pulling force such that the appliedresistance band-pulling force is normal to the apparatus. In someembodiments, the resistance band-attaching means is configured to adjustindependently of the top or bottom member. In some embodiments, theresistance band-attaching means comprises a rotatably attached annularmember or a track-and-runner mechanism positioned above the bottommember. In some embodiments, the apparatus substantially comprises oneor more polymers characteristic of a molding or 3D-printing process.

Also provided herein is an apparatus comprising a top member configuredto couple with an anatomical appendage or a structure thereof; a bottommember rotatably attached to the top member; a turntable bearing betweenthe top member and the bottom member; and a rolling mechanism about abottom surface of the bottom member, wherein the turntable bearing isconfigured to compensate for a point of lock up in the rolling mechanismby rotating the bottom member around the point of lock up. In someembodiments, the rolling mechanism comprises a plurality of invertedball transfer bearings arranged in an annulus about the bottom surfaceof the bottom member. In some embodiments, the turntable bearing isconfigured to compensate for a locked up ball transfer bearing byrotating the bottom member around the locked up ball transfer bearing.In some embodiments, a radius of the turntable bearing is equal to orgreater than a radius of the annulus in which the plurality of balltransfer bearings are arranged. In some embodiments, the apparatusfurther comprises a rotatably attached annular member positioned abovethe bottom member for attaching an end of one or more resistance bands,wherein the annular member is configured to adjust to an appliedresistance band-pulling force such that the applied resistanceband-pulling force is normal to the apparatus. In some embodiments, theapparatus substantially comprises one or more polymers characteristic ofan injection molding process. In some embodiments, the apparatus isconfigured to bear a weight of at least 100 kg.

Also provided herein is an apparatus comprising a top member including acoupling component; a bottom member rotatably attached to the topmember; and a movement mechanism about a bottom surface of the bottommember, configured to facilitate movement of the apparatus with respectto an extrinsic surface, wherein the top and bottom members areconfigured to compensate for a point of lock up in the movementmechanism by rotating the bottom member around the point of lock up. Insome embodiments, the movement mechanism comprises a plurality ofinverted ball transfer bearings arranged in an annulus about the bottomsurface of the bottom member. In some embodiments, a turntable bearingbetween the top member and the bottom member is configured to compensatefor a locked up ball transfer bearing by rotating the bottom memberaround the locked up ball transfer bearing. In some embodiments, aradius of the turntable bearing is equal to or greater than a radius ofthe annulus in which the plurality of ball transfer bearings arearranged. In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises arotatably attached annular member positioned above the bottom member forattaching an end of one or more resistance bands, wherein the annularmember is configured to adjust to an applied resistance band-pullingforce such that the applied resistance band-pulling force is normal tothe apparatus. In some embodiments, the apparatus substantiallycomprises one or more polymers characteristic of an injection moldingprocess. In some embodiments, the apparatus is configured foromni-directional movement under a weight of at least 100 kg.

Also provided herein is an apparatus comprising a top member, optionallyconfigured to couple with an anatomical appendage or a structurethereof; a bottom member rotatably attached to the top member; aturntable bearing between the top member and the bottom member; and aplurality of inverted ball transfer bearings arranged in an annulusabout a bottom surface of the bottom member, wherein a radius of theturntable bearing is sufficient in magnitude to enable the bottom memberto rotate around a locked up ball transfer bearing without interruptingmovement of the apparatus across a surface. In some embodiments, theradius of the turntable bearing is equal to or greater than a radius ofthe annulus in which the plurality of ball transfer bearings arearranged. In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises atrack-and-runner mechanism positioned above the bottom member forattaching an end of one or more resistance bands, wherein thetrack-and-runner mechanism is configured to adjust to an appliedresistance band-pulling force such that the applied resistanceband-pulling force is normal to the apparatus. In some embodiments, theapparatus substantially comprises one or more polymers characteristic ofa 3D-printing process.

While some particular embodiments have been provided herein, and whilethe particular embodiments have been provided in considerable detail,the particular embodiments do not limit the scope of the inventiveconcepts provided herein. Adaptations and/or modifications may appear topersons having ordinary skill in the art, and such adaptations and/ormodifications may also be within the scope of the inventive conceptsprovided herein. Accordingly, departures may be made from the particularembodiments provided herein without departing from the scope of theinventive concepts provided herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus, comprising: a top member configuredto couple a heal strap, a shin pad, knee pad and a toe strap; a bottommember rotatably attached to the top member and a turntable bearingbetween the top member and the bottom member for a multidirectionalrotation movement; a rolling mechanism having a ball transfer bearingand a recirculating load transmitting balls about a bottom surface ofthe bottom member, wherein the ball transfer bearing is assembled byadding the recirculating load transmitting ball in a plurality of layersto a top housing and a main ball is placed on top of the recirculatingload transmitting ball in the bottom housing; and wherein top housingand bottom housing is snap fitted without any openings to form a balltransfer bearing; and a side-mounted rolling mechanism recessed into aside surface of the top member or bottom member.
 2. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the turntable bearing is configured to compensate for apoint of lock up in the rolling mechanism by rotating the bottom memberaround the point of lock up.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein therolling mechanism comprises a plurality of inverted ball transferbearings.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a resistanceband-attaching means for attaching an end of one or more resistancebands, wherein the resistance band-attaching means is configured toadjust to an applied resistance band-pulling force such that the appliedresistance band-pulling force is normal to the apparatus.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 4, wherein the resistance band-attaching means isconfigured to adjust independently of the top or bottom member.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the side-mounted rolling mechanismcomprises of a number of side-mounted rolling elements individuallyrecessed into a side surface of the top member or bottom member.